Jim Carrey pays tribute to Chuck Russell, director of The Mask, dead at 74
American filmmaker Chuck Russell, who revealed Jim Carrey, Cameron Diaz and relaunched several major Hollywood franchises, died at the age of 74 this weekend.
Director Chuck Russell died Wednesday at the age of 74 at his home in the San Diego area. His death was confirmed by his lawyer. According to TMZ, emergency services intervened after a call reporting an unconscious man.
A few hours after the announcement of his death, Jim Carrey wanted to salute the man who had offered him one of the most significant roles of his career in The Mask.
“I consider it a privilege to have worked with Chuck Russell. During the filming of The Mask, he had created on the set an atmosphere overflowing with enthusiasm, almost childish, made of wonder and camaraderie” he confided in a press release sent to Variety. “The whole team was touched and inspired by his playful spirit. Each of us has been blessed for years by this suspended, joyful, timeless moment.” He concludes gratefully:
“I consider The Mask as one of the jewels of my creative life. Thanks, Chuck.“
Released in 1994, The Mask marked a turning point in the career of Jim Carrey, propelled to the rank of global superstar. The film also revealed Cameron Diaz, then completely unknown, in her very first film role. The blockbuster was nominated for an Oscar for best visual effects.
Before that, Chuck Russell made a name for himself by directing The Claws of the Nightmare (A Nightmare on Elm Street 3), an episode considered to be the one that relaunched the saga while revealing Patricia Arquette. He then signed the cult remake of The Blob.
His career continued after The Mask with several major Hollywood productions, including The Eraser with Arnold Schwarzenegger, then The Scorpion KingDwayne Johnson’s first major film role.
His last film will remain the remake of Witchboardcarried out in 2024.
